Pakistani army 'kills 16 Taleban'

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Pakistan's army says it has killed 16 Taleban militants and injured many more during an operation in the north-western Swat Valley.

Local officials say the number of dead is greater and includes civilians.

The military launched its offensive last week in response to a public outcry over the Taleban's growing strength in Swat.

The clash is the latest in an operation against an increasingly powerful Taleban insurgency in Swat.

The militants have tightened their hold on the scenic valley, banning girls' education, setting up their own courts and executing those they oppose, sometimes beheading their victims.

Last week the military launched a fresh offensive against the Taleban with the army chief and the government vowing to restore state authority in Swat.

But locals say the army action is often indiscriminate and officials report that women and children are among the dead from Sunday's fighting.